The National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) Region I conducted a Seminar on the Revised National Guidelines for the Mandatory Representation of Indigenous People (IPs). It was held at the People’s Hall, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) last September 4, 2024.

Present were Municipal Mayor Eulogio Clarence Martin P. De Guzman III, represented by Mr. Wilson Samuel C. Caluza, Administrator for Operations; Ms. Helen Jubilado from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, represented by Ms. Atty. Marvin C. Biligan, NCIP Region I; Ms. Joyce M. Abuan, Provincial Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR); and officials from NCIP Bauang, namely, Ms. Ester L. Marzan, Ms. Santos Delban Abuan, Ms. Venus T. Valdez, and Ms. Cifriana S. Daus. Also present were Mr. Eduardson S. Peralta, from Department of Education Bauang South District (DepEd BSD).

The participants were IPs and IPMRs from the different Barangays of Bauang.

According to Mr. Caluza, the role of the IPMRs is important for they are the ones who represent the IPs in their respective Barangays.

According to Atty. Biligan, each IPMR can hold office for one (1) to three (3) terms. They shall also be able to write plans and hold meetings for the welfare of IPs. A question was also raised about voting for IPMRs. Anyone who is a Barangay resident, an IP, and a voter can vote for an IPMR.

The Municipality of Bauang will continue supporting the local Indigenous People because they hold our rich history and they protect our natural resources.